And Pompey won the trophy thanks largely to an amazing defensive record, which saw them concede just one goal in six matches. Yet Campbell, James and David Beckham were sacrificed by McClaren when he took over as England boss after the World Cup two years ago.

McClaren realised he had boobed and brought back the trio, but it was not enough to salvage a disastrous qualifying campaign and England were dumped out by Croatia.

“Winning the cup brings out very different emotions to the Croatia game and a big contrast, for sure,” said the Portsmouth skipper.

“I personally think the gaffer took far too long to bring the guys back.

“Once you start on the campaign a little bit wobbly it’s hard to get it back on track. We nearly did, but not quite.”

Harry Redknapp is ready to make Liverpool reject Harry Kewell his first Pompey signing this summer.